The Black Church has historically been a source of hope and strength for the African American community.

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Friday, December 14, 2007

Highly Favored!

The angel went to Mary and said, “Greetings, you who are highly favored! The Lord is with you”. She was chosen to bring forth the Son of the Most High. She was young, virgin, and soon to be married. Can you imagine the uncomfortable feeling Mary must have had? She had to face her fiancé, tell him she was pregnant, and then convince him the child was a Holy child. Her repercussions could have meant a sure death. There was nothing in that moment to confirm her story… no DNA test to verify this babe was from God. We are always asking for the favor of God, yet are you prepared to accept His favor when it is not convenient to you?

Mary would have felt much better if the Lord had waited until she was married, then consulted both her and her husband. They could have sat together, broke bread, and had an invigorating drink over the issue. That is how we think. We want it to be comfortable. Sometimes God cannot bless us in comfort. He wants to see our acceptance, obedience, and trust in the worst moments of our lives. Mary said, “I am the Lord’s servant. Let it be to me just as He said.” Because of Mary’s submission, blessings abounded. Not just for her, but for the Kingdom of God for our Savior was born. Today, we celebrate the season of Christmas because Mary stood in God’s favor birthing the world’s hope for salvation.

When God blesses you it is always good. It might be uncomfortable; it might be a tight situation. But, if God has blessed you when things are not where you think they should be, embrace the favor of God and run with His vision. He will cover you, open doors for you, and turn your discomfort into pleasure – your sadness into joy. Let this season remind you of God’s timely favor! Rejoice with gladness because His word will not return void and we have been blessed with eternal life in Him. God wants you to know you are highly favored because you are His. Have a blessed, joyful, and loving Christmas season.